varnished
|var/nished|
🇺🇸
/ˈvɑr.nɪʃ/
🇬🇧
/ˈvɑː.nɪʃ/
(varnish)
glossy coating
Etymology
'varnish' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'vernis', where it meant 'varnish' or a resinous coating.
'varnish' changed from Old French 'vernis' into Middle English forms (e.g. 'varniss', 'varnish') and eventually became the modern English word 'varnish'.
Initially it referred primarily to the resinous substance used as a finish; over time it also came to mean the action 'to apply varnish' and figuratively 'to make superficially attractive' or 'to gloss over'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
past tense or past participle form of 'varnish' — to coat with a varnish or similar protective glossy finish.
They varnished the floor last week.
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Adjective 1
having been covered with varnish; having a glossy, protective finish.
The varnished surface reflected the light.
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Adjective 2
figuratively, made to appear more attractive or acceptable on the surface; superficially polished or concealed (often used with negative nuance: glossed over).
His résumé was varnished to hide gaps in employment.
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Last updated: 2025/09/25 02:51